With a possible attack on Iran by the US, the US Air Force has introduced a multi-day preparedness drill over the US Central Command area of responsibility, which is meant to exhibit its capability to deploy, disperse and sustain combat airpower in the region, US officials indicated.

Ninth Air Force, Air Forces Central, is conducting the exercise, which is geared towards the strengthening of dispersal of aircraft and personnel, strengthening of partnerships with the region, and preparation of forces to carry out flexible response operations across the CENTCOM theatre.

The Air Force says that the drill will demonstrate the processes of rapid response of people and aircraft, scattered operations in the contingency sites, minimal footprint logistical support, and multinational command and control over a wide region of operation.

Lt. Gen. Derek France, commander of the Air Forces Central and Combined Forces Air Component said, “Our Airmen are proving capable of dispersing, operating, and creating combat sorties under tough conditions, safely, accurately and together with our partners.” 

He claimed that the drill highlights the US determination to have combat-ready forces and to have airpower ready when required.

In the exercise, the US forces will deploy teams to various contingency sites and experiment on quick setup, launching, and recovery procedures using small and sustainable support packages. The Air Force said all the activities were being conducted with the host country’s approval and at the coordination of the civil and military aviation authorities.

US officials further indicated that through conducting regular exercises of tactics, techniques and procedures within an evolving operational environment, the Air Force aims to bolster the security in the region with the partner countries, prevent aggression and minimise the probability of miscalculating as the military presence remains responsible.